Bat breeding season brings threat of rabies-like virus

Townsville Hospital and Health Service public health director Dr Steven Donohue has warned the community not to do something batty, like touch a flying-fox.

It’s breeding season for the protected animal and residents have been told any bat species could be carrying a potentially fatal disease to humans.

“Australian Bat Lyssavirus (ABLV) is closely related to rabies and has led to a small number of deaths in Queensland,” Dr Donohue said.

“Clinics across north Queensland are seeing more people needing a series of painful injections to avoid getting ABLV.

“If you do get bitten or scratched, you will need medical attention. It’s the same treatment as for a bite by a rabid dog or monkey in Asia.”

The warning comes as flying-fox activity increases across Townsville, particularly in suburbs like Kirwan.

“There’s flying-fox activity close to homes and there’s the chance some residents living close to a roosting area may find a fallen baby bat or a one stuck on a wire fence or dead in their yard,” he said.

“Do not touch a bat – sick or well, adult or pup, dead or alive. 

“You don’t know if it’s infected and you should call a trained and vaccinated bat carer who can safely rescue it.”

“Bats can bite or scratch through a towel or leather glove so the best thing to do is to stay clear and let a professional handle it.

“If you have been bitten or scratched by a flying-fox then immediately wash the wound, apply antiseptic, and seek medical advice.”

If you find an injured bat or flying-fox, contact the RSPCA (1300 ANIMAL) or your local wildlife care group, or the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection (1300 130 372) for assistance. Do not attempt to assist the animal yourself.

For further information, phone 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84).